Church representatives from Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombiarecently met virtually to continue the construction process of theSynodal Apostolic Planof theEcclesial Conference of the Amazon (CEAMA)The session included the participation of pastoral leaders and representatives from various ecclesiastical jurisdictions in the Amazon region.
Territorial and vocational diversity at the service of the process
During the opening, the participants introduced themselves, sharing their experiences, roles, and backgrounds. This diversity enriched the dialogue and reaffirmed CEAMA’s synodal commitment to aChurch with an Amazonian face, built from the voices and concrete realities of the communities in the territory.
Towards a synodal and intercultural apostolic plan
Marcelo Lemos (Executive Secretary of CEAMA) and Alicia Covaleda (Planning Consultant for the Synodal Apostolic Plan of CEAMA), presented the progress in the formulation of the Apostolic Plan of CEAMA, emphasizing that it is adeeply synodal, participatory and innovative process, aimed at capturing the priorities, challenges, and dreams of the local Churches. The document is currently in the discernment phase, and a proposal is expected to be ready for presentation to the CEAMA Presidency and Assembly in March 2026.
Listening, discernment and participation
One of the central axes of the meeting was thesynodal listening process, led by Alicia, which includes several stages: consultations with ecclesiastical jurisdictions, thematic workshops, and active participation by episcopal conferences and organizations in the region. The process will last 16 weeks and will be conducted virtually, due to budgetary constraints that prevent in-person meetings at this stage.
A shared path for the entire Amazon region
The planning process is being adapted to different national, regional and local contexts. WhileColombia, Peru and Ecuadorcould start earlier,Brazil and BoliviaThey plan to join after the Meeting of Bishops of the Amazon in August 2025. The importance of respecting local rhythms and articulating the process of the apostolic plan with the advances of theSynod of Synodality, strengthening the ecclesial fabric in the Amazonian territory.
Towards a Church that dreams of and from the Amazon
This process reflects CEAMA’s vocation as a space for communion, discernment, and service to the Church in the Amazon. Deep listening, respect for diversity, and walking together are essential elements for building aChurch on the move, inculturated and Samaritan, capable of responding with hope to the challenges of this time.